Ulster Rugby, the Irish province, has suffered a significant financial setback in the 2022-23 season, posting losses of over £900,000. The chief executive, Jonny Petrie, attributed the losses to the controversial Champions Cup tie with La Rochelle in December. The game was unexpectedly moved to the Aviva Stadium in Dublin due to a frozen pitch at Kingspan Stadium. Petrie estimated that the last-minute change cost the province around £700,000. The financial impact of the game, along with increased expenditure, resulted in a deficit of £937,226 before tax. Despite an increase in income from grants and sponsorship, Ulster Rugby faced challenges in managing rising costs, including utilities, match expenses, and staff salaries. Petrie acknowledged the difficulties faced by the club and expressed the commitment to work towards a more sustainable future by reforming the funding model for rugby on the island.